Shetland - Breed record

Geographical origin

Shetland Islands (Scotland, UK)

History

• Originated & evolved in isolation for millenia in a cold & windy environment w/ little shelter & scarce food

• XIXth c.: imported to the mainland to be used as draft animals in coal mines

• Later exported to various European countries, Canada & USA as riding animals for children

• 1890: stud-book

Calibre / Size

• ~ 101 cm (best conformation: < 95 cm)

• Short, stocky body

• Short, fine limbs

• Large back, powerful hindquarters

• Small & dished head, very small ears, big & prominent eyes

• Long, thick, straight mane & tail

• All colours (most common: black & bay)

Performance

• Have been massively used to pull carts in mines

• Nowadays mainly used as riding animals for children

Temperament / Behaviour

Rustic, adaptable, resistant

Anatomical / pathological particularities

• Strenght; can carry ~ their weight (150-180 kg) and pull twice their weight

• Very wide nostrils → air is warmed up before inhalation (Nordic breed characteristic)

Economic & ethical aspects

Not suited for hot weather and rich feed (due to their origin): short, fine coat in summer & long thick coat in winter

→ problem for those used for pleasure riding